The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has called on Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to intervene in a leadership dispute that has divided the Christian community in northern Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday, CMF Secretary Andrew Mshelia expressed concern over the ongoing power struggle between Rev. Yakubu Pam, former chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Northern Nigeria, and Rev. Joseph Hayab, a senior leader within the association.
The dispute has created tensions across 19 northern states, affecting one of the country’s most influential religious organisations.
“We urge the warring factions to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance,” CMF stated. “The Christian community should be a beacon of hope, love and unity, not a symbol of division and strife.”
A Crisis with Broader Implications
CAN, founded in 1976, is Nigeria’s largest interdenominational Christian body, representing millions of worshippers across the country.
It has historically played a crucial role in advocating for religious freedom and interfaith harmony in a nation where Christian-Muslim relations are sometimes fraught with tension.
Observers warn that the internal crisis within CAN’s northern chapter could weaken the organisation’s ability to advocate for Christian interests at a time when religious groups face growing security threats, including attacks by extremist groups and communal conflicts.
Religious analysts say the dispute is not just about leadership; it also reflects broader concerns over unity within Nigeria’s diverse Christian denominations, which include Catholic, Protestant, and Pentecostal groups.
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Call for Reconciliation
The CMF emphasised that the prolonged dispute has tarnished the reputation of CAN and distracted from its mission of promoting religious cohesion.
Citing 1 Peter 3:8, the organisation urged both factions to embrace unity, stating, “As Christians, we are called to live in harmony with one another, to be compassionate and humble.”
The forum called on Archbishop Okoh to use his influence to mediate between the rival groups and facilitate a peaceful resolution.
“We encourage both sides to keep an open mind and seek a solution that prioritises peace over personal ambition,” the statement added.
While neither Rev. Pam nor Rev. Hayab has publicly responded to CMF’s appeal, there is growing pressure from within Nigeria’s Christian community to resolve the conflict.
Many fear that if left unchecked, the leadership tussle could erode public trust in CAN and deepen divisions among Christian groups in the region.
With Nigeria facing economic, political, and security challenges, faith-based organisations play a key role in advocating for social justice, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding. A fractured leadership within CAN could weaken its ability to engage on these issues at a national level.
CMF expressed confidence that Archbishop Okoh’s leadership could restore unity and ensure that CAN remains a strong voice for Christians in Nigeria.
“With God’s guidance, we believe this crisis can be resolved, and the church will emerge stronger than ever,” the organisation affirmed.
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